Florida Maritime Museum Cortez
Discover Florida's maritime heritage at this free museum in Cortez, showcasing fishing history and community resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Florida Maritime Museum Cortez
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Florida's maritime heritage at this free museum in Cortez, showcasing fishing history and community resilience.
"A FREE attraction that is an amazing window into the past, present and future of our little slice of heaven."
Free Admission! 🎉
This gem is a FREE attraction, offering an amazing window into local maritime history. Donations are welcome!
Check Workshop Schedule ✍️
Even during construction, staff host workshops on the deck. Great info and hands-on learning!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Local Fishing Legacy
Discover the rich history and traditions of Cortez's commercial fishing industry through engaging exhibits.
Hurricane Impact Exhibits
Learn about the resilience of the community and the effects of hurricanes on the local maritime heritage.
Hands-On Activities
Engage with interactive displays and activities designed for all ages, making learning fun and memorable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Reopening Status
Embrace the Village Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
This gem is a FREE attraction, offering an amazing window into local maritime history. Donations are welcome!
Check Workshop Schedule ✍️
Even during construction, staff host workshops on the deck. Great info and hands-on learning!
Lunch Break Closure 🕛
The museum closes for lunch from noon to 1:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Explore Cortez Village 🏘️
Wander through the oldest fishing village in Florida before or after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
This gem is a FREE attraction, offering an amazing window into local maritime history. Donations are welcome!
Check Workshop Schedule ✍️
Even during construction, staff host workshops on the deck. Great info and hands-on learning!
Lunch Break Closure 🕛
The museum closes for lunch from noon to 1:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Explore Cortez Village 🏘️
Wander through the oldest fishing village in Florida before or after your visit.
Kid-Friendly Fun 🧸
Lots of hands-on activities make it a great spot for families with children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Florida Maritime Museum Cortez for its free admission and engaging, family-friendly exhibits that highlight local fishing history and hurricane resilience. The staff are noted for their friendliness and knowledge, even during ongoing construction. Some visitors mention the museum's lunch closure and the ongoing rebuilding efforts.
"While the museum itself is not open yet, still undergoing construction from last year's hurricane season, the staff are still there holding workshops on the covered deck. I was really impressed with the friendliness of the staff as well as the knowledge. The workshop I attended was called 'Saving Your Stuff.' It was a lot of great information, and they even encouraged us to put on gloves and try to save some materials they had intentionally 'destroyed'."
Noelle Knight
"Finally went to the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez Fishing Village, another neighborhood treasure! This was Wednesday of this week 💙🤍⛵🛶🤿
FYI - This is a FREE attraction that is an amazing window into the past, present and future of our little slice of heaven. Everyone should check it out!"
Veronica Schramm
"Fantastic little museum chronicles local fishing legacy as well as hurricane impacts. Very nice exhibits. Kid friendly with lots of activities. Free! Closes for lunch noon to 1:00."
Carson S Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Cortez, Florida, often described as the oldest fishing village in Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is situated near beaches and restaurants.
While specific parking details can vary, the museum is part of the charming Cortez village, suggesting street parking or designated areas might be available.
Absolutely! Cortez is a historic fishing village with a unique atmosphere. Exploring it before or after your museum visit is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez offers FREE admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Donations are appreciated to support their work.
The museum typically closes for a lunch break between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their current hours before visiting, especially if construction is ongoing.
While the museum aims to be open year-round, it has undergone construction due to hurricane damage. It's crucial to verify their current operational status and hours directly.
Since admission is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events, it's advisable to check if any registration or ticket information is provided.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect exhibits detailing the local fishing legacy, maritime history, tools, instruments, and the impact of hurricanes on the community.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly and offers numerous hands-on activities that children will enjoy.
Even during construction, the museum staff hosts workshops on their covered deck, offering valuable information and practical experience.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Cortez village to fully appreciate the area's maritime heritage and charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have a full restaurant, special events sometimes offer food and drinks for sale, benefiting the Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum.
The museum is located in Cortez, a fishing village known for its fresh seafood. You'll find several local restaurants nearby offering delicious options.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in museums, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or ask staff on-site.
The charming Cortez fishing village, with its boats and waterfront views, offers excellent photographic opportunities. The museum grounds also feature beautiful flowers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a potential lunch break closure between noon and 1 PM, and consider exploring the charming Cortez village before or after your visit for a complete experience.
Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the picturesque Cortez fishing village, which is also free to wander through, and enjoy affordable local seafood options nearby for a complete, low-cost adventure.
History Enthusiasts
Even during periods of reconstruction, the museum's commitment to sharing knowledge through workshops provides a unique opportunity to learn directly from knowledgeable staff.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Cortez: A Fishing Village's Story
Beyond the fishing heritage, the museum also addresses the significant impact of hurricanes on the local community. These exhibits highlight the resilience and adaptability of the people of Cortez, demonstrating how they have rebuilt and preserved their way of life in the face of natural challenges. The museum's commitment to preserving this history ensures that the unique maritime culture of Cortez continues to be understood and appreciated.
Even when undergoing renovations, the museum's dedication to education shines through. Visitors have reported attending informative workshops on the covered deck, gaining practical knowledge and engaging directly with the knowledgeable staff. This proactive approach ensures that the museum remains a valuable resource for the community and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the past, present, and future of this special place.
Family Fun and Educational Experiences
Parents and guardians will appreciate the museum's commitment to providing an enriching experience without a hefty price tag. With free admission, it's an accessible outing for families looking to explore local culture and history. The museum's location within the charming Cortez fishing village also provides opportunities for further exploration, making it a well-rounded family day trip.
Visitors have praised the museum for its ability to captivate both adults and children, fostering a shared learning experience. The combination of historical exhibits and interactive fun makes the Florida Maritime Museum Cortez a memorable stop for any family traveling through the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit